Asparagus With Creamy Sesame Dressing

🌱 Asparagus with Creamy Sesame Dressing 🍽️

What is it?
Asparagus with Creamy Sesame Dressing is a delightful and healthy side dish that combines tender, vibrant asparagus spears with a rich and flavorful sesame-based dressing. It’s a fusion of fresh, crisp asparagus with the nutty and savory notes of sesame, creating a mouthwatering dish.

History:
The exact origin of this specific dish isn’t well-documented, but it incorporates elements from Asian and Western cuisines. Asparagus, native to Europe, has been enjoyed for centuries, while sesame seeds and their oil are commonly used in Asian cooking. The combination of these ingredients showcases how global culinary influences can create delicious, unique dishes.

Components:

• Fresh asparagus spears
• Sesame seeds (white or black)
• Sesame oil
• Soy sauce
• Mayonnaise
• Garlic (minced)
• Rice vinegar
• Sugar
• Salt
• Red pepper flakes (optional for some heat)
• Chopped green onions (for garnish)

Steps to Prepare:

1. Prepare the Asparagus:

   • Start by trimming the tough ends of the asparagus. You can snap them off where they naturally break, or cut about 1-2 inches from the base.

2. Blanch the Asparagus:

   • In a large pot of boiling salted water, blanch the asparagus for 2-3 minutes, or until they become bright green and slightly tender. Then, immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. This helps maintain their vibrant color and crispness.

3. Make the Creamy Sesame Dressing:

   • In a small bowl, combine sesame seeds, sesame oil, soy sauce, mayonnaise, minced garlic, rice vinegar, sugar, salt, and red pepper flakes if you want a little spice. Whisk until the dressing is well mixed and creamy.

4. Assemble:

   • Arrange the blanched asparagus on a serving platter.

5. Drizzle with Dressing:

   • Drizzle the creamy sesame dressing over the asparagus. You can be as generous or conservative as you like with the dressing.

6. Garnish:

   • Sprinkle with chopped green onions and additional sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.

7. Serve:

   • Serve your Asparagus with Creamy Sesame Dressing immediately as a side dish to your main course.

Time Needed:
The total time to prepare this dish is around 20-30 minutes. It may take a bit longer if you are new to blanching asparagus, but it’s a straightforward and rewarding recipe that’s worth the effort.

Enjoy your delicious and visually appealing Asparagus with Creamy Sesame Dressing! 🌱🍽️😊

Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Asparagus with Creamy Sesame Dressing:

Nutrition Facts (Approximate Values per Serving):

• Calories: 80-100 calories (may vary based on the amount of dressing used)
• Protein: 2-4 grams
• Carbohydrates: 4-6 grams
• Dietary Fiber: 2-3 grams
• Sugars: 2-3 grams
• Fat: 6-8 grams (mainly from sesame oil and mayonnaise)
• Saturated Fat: 1-2 grams
• Sodium: 200-300 milligrams (may vary based on soy sauce and salt used)

Health Information:

1. Low in Calories: Asparagus is a low-calorie vegetable, making it a great choice for weight-conscious individuals. The creamy sesame dressing adds flavor without significantly increasing the calorie content.

2. Rich in Fiber: Asparagus is a good source of dietary fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health and can help you feel full and satisfied.

3. Nutrient-Dense: Asparagus is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, vitamin A, vitamin C, folate, and potassium. These nutrients support various bodily functions, including bone health, vision, and immune function.

4. Heart-Healthy Fats: While the dressing contains fats, most of it comes from sesame oil, which is rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. These fats can be beneficial for heart health when consumed in moderation.

5. Protein Source: Asparagus provides a small amount of protein, and the sesame dressing may contribute a bit more. Protein is essential for muscle maintenance and overall body function.

6. Low in Saturated Fat: The dish is generally low in saturated fat, which is known to be less healthy for your heart when consumed in excess.

7. Sodium Consideration: Be mindful of the sodium content, primarily from soy sauce and added salt. High sodium intake can contribute to hypertension, so it’s important to balance it with low-sodium meals throughout the day.

8. Phytonutrients: Asparagus contains various phytonutrients, including antioxidants, that may have potential health benefits. These can help protect your cells from damage and support overall well-being.

Remember that the specific nutrition values can vary based on the serving size and the exact ingredients used in the creamy sesame dressing. Additionally, individual dietary needs may vary, so it’s important to consider your own nutritional goals when including this dish in your diet.